Why over a QUARTER of Brits could be risking an unlimited fine and a driving ban after the Royal Wedding this weekend
MORE than a quarter of motorists could be risking a hefty fine and a driving ban this weekend.
Royal Wedding celebrations in backyards around the country could see Brits drinking more and getting behind the wheel, according to a new study.
Conducted by AlcoSense, the study found that over a third of Brits admitted they were more likely to drink to excess at a garden party with friends than they were at the pub.
And worryingly, 26 per cent of motorists also admitted they would drive after drinking at back garden celebrations.
Anyone caught behind the wheel while over the legal drink-driving limit can be slapped with a driving ban, and unlimited fine and even a short prison term in more serious cases.
And it isn't just Brits driving home from the party that are taking a risk.
Tips to avoid a drink-driving ban this weekend
- Count the number and type of drinks you have - some drinks are made up of more alcoholic units than you may think
- Don't believe the myths - time is the only factor that will sober you up
- Leave your car at home if you are going to drink
- Make a plan to get home before you start drinking
- Use a if you are unsure whether you are over the limit or not the next day
- The best advice is to simply avoid driving if you have had a drink
According to the Department for Transport, nearly a fifth of drink driving convictions are for motorists caught the morning after a big night - meaning party-goers will need to plan ahead.
But despite the chance of being caught, a quarter of drivers said they would risk driving the morning after a big night.
Hunter Abbott, MD of AlcoSense breathalysers, said: "It’s all too easy to drink too much at your first back garden BBQ of the year in the warm Spring sunshine - especially when celebrating the Royal Wedding on Saturday - then get behind the wheel next morning and still have alcohol in your system.
"Any alcohol can slow your reaction time, inhibit judgement, reduce concentration and affect eye, foot and hand co-ordination – increasing the likelihood of an accident.
"The only way to tell when you’re safe to drive the morning after the night before is either to abstain completely from drinking alcohol or to use an accurate personal breathalyser."
The road laws you need to know
RAC spokesman Rod Dennis said: “This weekend is bound to see plenty of people use the royal wedding as a reason to have their own celebrations, and in lots of cases that’s likely to involve alcohol.
"Anyone planning on going out and having a drink to toast the newlyweds must make sure they can get home safely without their car – so this means having a lift or taxi arranged, or a designated driver with them or seeking public transport options.
“Drinking and driving simply don’t mix. With early estimates suggesting the number of fatal collisions on our roads is actually rising as a result of drink drivers, it’s just as important as ever that motorists heed all the advice and never drink and drive.”